Tension rocks ADC coalition as EFCC targets key members over corruption probes

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition is facing internal panic and external pressure amid ongoing corruption investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), with several top members under scrutiny — a move the party alleges is politically motivated.Panic has gripped the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its allies in the 2027 opposition coalition as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) intensifies investigations into key political figures working to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the next general election.

The latest development saw former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, interrogated by EFCC operatives on Monday, August 11, 2025, over alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals amounting to N189 billion during his time in office between 2015 and 2023.

Tambuwal was reportedly questioned at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja for suspected violations of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

“Former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal is being held over alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals to the tune of N189 billion,” an EFCC source told The PUNCH. “The withdrawals are in flagrant violation of the Money Laundering Act.”

According to multiple sources, Tambuwal remains in custody as the investigation continues.

ADC Cries Intimidation, Alleges Political Witch-hunt
Reacting to the development, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi confirmed that three former governors, all key figures in the opposition alliance, have been summoned by the EFCC.

“Some left office in 2023, and some even earlier. This is an attempt to force them out of the coalition or to intimidate them into silence. But we are determined to rescue Nigeria,” Abdullahi said.

In a strongly worded statement, the ADC accused the EFCC of reviving “old and settled” corruption allegations to intimidate opposition members while turning a blind eye to allegations involving ruling party (APC) loyalists.

“These are not fresh cases but new files opened in reaction to emerging political affiliations… The EFCC now operates like a department of the APC,” the statement read.

The party cited an example where a former governor, after defecting to the APC, has seen his corruption probe “vanish from public view,” while opposition figures face renewed scrutiny.

EFCC Denies Bias, Challenges ADC to Present Evidence
Responding to the ADC’s claims, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale dismissed the accusations as “untenable and ridiculous,” insisting the agency remains non-partisan.

“Where are the facts to justify such a claim? Those who did the crime should be ready to face justice,” he said.

Cracks in the Coalition Deepen
The corruption probe is worsening internal rifts within the ADC-led coalition. In recent weeks:

The Obidient Movement, led by Tanko Yunusa, expressed dissatisfaction over being sidelined, citing lack of inclusion in major coalition decisions.

Peter Obi, though aligned with the coalition, has yet to make a formal move from the Labour Party, with Yunusa stating that Obi will decide “at the right time.”

Former Lagos Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, Ex-Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi, and former SGF Boss Mustapha have all publicly distanced themselves from the ADC and reaffirmed their loyalty to the APC.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar reportedly postponed plans to officially join the ADC amid speculation over Goodluck Jonathan’s potential 2027 bid.

ADC Seeks Stability Amid Leadership Transition
Amid the political turbulence, the ADC confirmed the resignation of National Chairman Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, with Hon. Nafiu Bala appointed as Acting National Chairman.

In his acceptance speech in Abuja, Bala pledged to strengthen internal democracy, improve party structures, and build strategic alliances.

“Together, we will build a stronger, more united, and more effective political party in Nigeria,” he said.

Meanwhile, the ADC’s 2023 governorship candidates urged opposition leaders including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, and others to follow due process by resigning from their former parties and registering officially with the ADC at the ward level.

As the EFCC continues its investigations, the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general election remains volatile, with the ADC coalition under mounting legal, political, and internal pressure.